Using Gravity Batteries To Charge Storage Cells

By V. A. Schye

A convenient method of charging storage cells with gravity batteries is
outlined in the illustration herewith. A change-over switch-board is
shown, connecting to both sets of batteries, so that when the two
switches are in one position, say "charge," the crow-foot cells will
re-energize the storage batteries. When the switches are thrown in the
position marked "service," the storage cells are connected in series to
the lamp circuit as perceived.

The storage cell connected across the charging mains should be transposed
with the other cells periodically, as it will tend to charge faster than
the others and also it will not discharge as fast as the rest, in view of
the fact that the crow-foot cells are "floated" across the terminals of
same. The gravity cells yield about .95 volt each and for each storage
cell under charge, the potential developed by the source of energy used
to replenish same should be figured at 2.75 to 3 volts. In this case the
storage cells are connected in parallel while charging, so that three or
four gravity cells in series will usually suffice.